Memorial Day is being observed this year on Monday May 26th. Have a great weekend! Many of you are headed down the shore or to the mountains, but take a few minutes this weekend to remember what we are celebrating.
Memorial Day commemorates U.S. men and women who died while in the military service. First enacted to honor Union soldiers of the American Civil War (it is celebrated near the day of reunification after the Civil War), it was expanded after World War I to include all who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
Many people observe this holiday by visiting cemeteries and memorials. A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3:00 p.m. local time. Another tradition is to fly the flag of the United States at half-staff from dawn until noon local time. Volunteers often place American flags on each grave site at National Cemeteries.
Members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars take donations for poppies in the days leading up to Memorial Day; the poppy’s significance to Memorial Day is the result of the John McCrae poem “In Flanders Field.”
In addition to remembrance, Memorial Day is also used as a time for picnics, barbecues, family gatherings, and sporting events. One of the longest-standing traditions is the running of the Indianapolis 500, which has been held in conjunction with Memorial Day since 1911.
Please join us in celebrating our brave Men and Women who have given their life defending our freedom. Make sure the veterans in your circle know how much you appreciate the risks they took, and how glad you are they survived. Enjoy your holiday and stay safe this weekend.
